Sassella

By Anya Sebastian

ENJOY THE BEST OF ITALY WITHOUT LEAVING HOME!

Summer time is here at last and Sassella’s exceptional patio is once again attracting an enthusiastic clientele. The beautiful, outdoor space was so much in demand last year that additional seating capacity has been added. And since lunch on the patio has become increasingly popular, hours have been extended, with lunch now being offered Thursday through Monday, from 11:30am to 2:00pm.

The menu does change with the seasons and summer dishes are lighter, like the sea bass on a bed of gnocchetti alla Chiavennasca. There is a spin on the classic caprese salad, and the Southern Italian dish panzanella.

Sassella’s Executive Chef and co-owner, Cristian Pontiggia, has been awarded many accolades during his distinguished culinary career, including being recognized as a Master Chef by the Italian government. He was recently one of only 20 chefs from around the world chosen to represent the James Beard Society for a series of special events, called Taste America. The goal is to bring together chefs and diners to celebrate local, independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. Cristian has also invited a chef from Argentina to join him in putting together a special dinner at Sassella in November. So, watch this space and be sure to book early!

Something that the restaurant has always specialized in is gin, with tastings being offered several times a week. Space is necessarily limited for these events and reservations are required. However, diners do have the option to enjoy a different kind of gin and tonic this summer, with new gin flavors including grapefruit and pomegranate.

If you want to take a taste of Italy home with you, Sassella’s Deli has just acquired a whole range of new products, the direct result of Cristian’s visit to the Italian Food Convention in Las Vegas. They include a wide variety of artisan pastas, some of them gluten-free, and one made with squid ink, which is completely black. There are also specialty olive oils, vinegars, cheeses, delicious jams, coffees, charcuterie, gelatos, sorbets and so much more. Some products are exclusive to the Deli and there are a few items from the restaurant as well, so you can enjoy the same great dishes in the comfort of your own home.

So, keep an eye out for next year’s James Beard Award nominees for Best Chef. Sassella’s Cristian Pontiggia may well be included in the list.